A male ekkie eats a piece of fruit from a person's hand. A sun conure is also there.

Everything You Need to Know About Bird Treats

Treats are an excellent way to add variety to your bird’s regular diet and show your affection and care for them. Bird owners have a wide range of options when it comes to different types of treats, from treat sticks to cooked snacks, and many fruits and vegetables also offer delicious and nutritious ways to diversify an avian diet. While it is important to monitor the amount of treats you feed your bird, the occasional special snack can have positive effects on their well-being.

Seeds & Nuts

Many stores offer a wide array of treat options for birds, with most containing seeds or nuts. If the treat includes safflower and sunflower seeds, it can have a high-fat content, providing a rich flavor that any bird will appreciate. However, due to this high fat content, caution should be exercised, as overindulgence can lead to obesity and other adverse health effects in your bird.

Treat Sticks

Seed sticks are popular with many types of pet birds. These sticks can be seen as both a treat and a toy, giving your bird a delicious snack that they can hang and swing as they enjoy it. Most seed sticks are made with a wide assortment seeds to provide your bird with some healthy variety.

Cooked Snacks

Another way to enhance your feathered friend’s daily diet is with a delightful assortment of pet bird treats that require some preparation but are both enjoyable and nutritious. Crafted from rice, pasta, crisp cashews, walnuts, and the enticing flavors of tropical fruits, these mixes offer a wholesome snack and a sensory journey of colors, textures, and tastes, appealing to birds of various sizes. Preparing these treats is a breeze—just add water to cook, let them cool, and serve!

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are another category of treats that can be equally nutritious and delicious and are readily available to many bird owners. Fresh or dried fruit can add a touch of sweetness to your bird’s diet, and carrots and bell peppers are also popular with some species, providing essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots, in particular, can support your bird’s eye health, and crunchy treats, in general, can help your bird exercise their jaw and beak. Outside of avocado birds can try any fruit or vegetable. When fruit or vegetables turn brown fresh produce should be discarded so as not to turn rancid.

While treats are a fun addition to a bird’s diet, they should not constitute more than 10% of their daily food intake. A diet primarily composed of treats can lead to nutritional imbalances and health issues. However, when used in conjunction with a balanced diet, treats can be a great way to keep your bird happy and healthy.

At myBird, we know how much joy birds can bring and seek to give bird lovers the knowledge they need to best care for their pets. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and be sure to check out our other posts about birds or take our quiz to see which types of birds may be right for you!